The issue of the Moroccan Sahara continues to be a constant in the Kingdom's diplomacy. For several years, Morocco has managed to assert its political narrative of the conflict by adopting a consistent, patient, and pragmatic strategy. In contrast, Algeria, which claims to be a 'not involved' party, finds itself more isolated on the regional and international stage.
The American recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara, in December 2020, marked a significant diplomatic turning point. Since then, around thirty countries have opened consulates in Laâyoune or Dakhla, thereby affirming the legitimacy of Morocco's position. Support has increased from Africa to Latin America and the Caribbean, confirming the credibility of the autonomy plan proposed by the Kingdom under Moroccan sovereignty.
On the other hand, Algeria insists on maintaining a rigid stance, continuing to finance and arm the Polisario in a logic of outdated confrontation. Its attempts to influence certain African states have not produced lasting effects. Even within the African Union, the tone has changed: advocates of a realistic and peaceful approach are gaining ground.
Morocco has focused on economic and cultural diplomacy. Its partnerships with African countries in energy, agriculture, training, and finance have solidified its presence on the continent. The opening of consulates, the increase in official visits, and royal initiatives in South-South cooperation have added a new depth to its African diplomacy.
Meanwhile, Algerian diplomacy is becoming marginalized. Its traditional alliances—particularly with some Latin American countries—are weakening, and its break in relations with Morocco has only highlighted its isolation. On the international front, even major powers are opting for a realistic approach: the UN Security Council now emphasizes a 'realistic, pragmatic, and sustainable' political solution, echoing the very terms of the Moroccan proposal.
Beyond politics, Morocco has successfully built cultural and spiritual influence through religious cooperation and educational exchanges. Algeria, entrenched in a diplomacy of rupture and resentment, is missing out on the opportunities offered by regional integration.
The Sahara issue is no longer playing out solely on the geopolitical stage but also on the fronts of development and stability. By positioning itself as a player in peace and growth, Morocco has managed to transform a territorial dispute into a lever for diplomatic influence.
Algeria's isolation, resulting from rigid strategic choices and a backward-looking diplomacy, contrasts with the constructive approach of the Kingdom. Now more than ever, the Moroccan Sahara illustrates the victory of realism over ideology, development over confrontation, and consensus over isolation.
